Which of the following correctly describes how electrons differ from protons and neutrons?

• A. Electrons have a greater mass than both protons and neutrons.
• B. Electrons are found in the nucleus, while protons and neutrons are found outside the nucleus.
• C. Electrons have a negative charge, while protons are positive and neutrons are neutral.
• D. Electrons and protons both have no charge, while neutrons are negatively charged.

Answer: (C)

Verified step by step guidance

1. Recall the basic properties of subatomic particles: protons, neutrons, and electrons.
2. Understand that protons have a positive charge, neutrons have no charge (neutral), and electrons have a negative charge.
3. Recognize that protons and neutrons are located in the nucleus of an atom, while electrons are found in the electron cloud surrounding the nucleus.
4. Compare the masses: protons and neutrons have similar masses, which are much greater than the mass of electrons.
5. Use these facts to evaluate each statement and identify the one that correctly describes how electrons differ from protons and neutrons.